Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SD Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in South Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist in South Dakota, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Cosmetologist in South Dakota
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
South Dakota Cosmetology Commission
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,050 median (39% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in South Dakota
With a median salary of 49,050, Cosmetologists in South Dakota earn 39% above the national median of $35,250. South Dakota ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,123Median annual salary
$49,050Hourly estimate
$23.5839% above national median
Difference: +$13,800
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#4 of 50 statesfor Cosmetologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 58,920 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 52,000 |
| #3 | Vermont | 49,640 |
| #4 | South Dakota | 49,050 |
| #5 | Maine | 48,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
Cosmetologist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $49,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $33,870 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $42,850 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $37,850 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $39,190 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $32,400 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $38,230 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
South Dakota Cosmetology Commission
217 W Missouri Ave, Pierre, SD, 57501
Phone: 6057736193
Related Careers in South Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $38,960 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $31,930 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $40,780 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $40,210 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist in South Dakota?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in South Dakota?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in South Dakota is 49,050. Salaries range from $32,670 (10th percentile) to $61,900 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in South Dakota compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in South Dakota earn 39% above the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 49,050.
How many Cosmetologists work in South Dakota?
South Dakota employs approximately 530 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to South Dakota from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Cosmetologists in South Dakota?
The licensing agency is South Dakota Cosmetology Commission. Review agency details at http://dlr.sd.gov/cosmetology/default.aspx.